Key Sites

The 'Key Sites' topic in OCR GCSE Classical Civilisation focuses on the archaeological and architectural remains of ancient Greece and Rome. You will study specific sites such as the Athenian Acropolis, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum, learning how their design, function, and decoration reflect the values, beliefs, and daily life of the classical world. This topic is crucial because it connects literary sources with physical evidence, allowing you to reconstruct how ancient societies operated and what they prioritised.

Understanding key sites helps you appreciate the legacy of classical architecture and urban planning, which continue to influence modern buildings and cities. For example, the Parthenon's use of columns and symmetry is echoed in many government buildings today. By examining sites like Pompeii, you gain insight into Roman domestic life, religion, and entertainment. This topic also develops your skills in analysing primary sources—both visual and textual—which is a core skill for the GCSE exam.

Within the OCR specification, Key Sites is often linked to other topics such as 'Myth and Religion' or 'Roman City Life'. For instance, the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens connects to the study of Greek religion, while the Baths of Caracalla in Rome relate to Roman social habits. Mastering this topic will give you a solid foundation for interpreting archaeological evidence and understanding how the classical world has shaped our own.